Blog Edible Landscapes: How to Incorporate Fruit and Vegetable Gardens into Your Design Mar 29, 2025

Edible landscapes are rapidly becoming a popular trend among homeowners who wish to embrace both aesthetics and functionality in their gardens. Combining fruit and vegetable gardens with traditional landscaping not only enhances the beauty of your outdoor space but also provides a sustainable source of fresh produce. If you're ready to transform your garden into an edible landscape, you're on the right path. At Natural View Landscape, Inc., we believe in creating spaces that are both beautiful and bountiful. Here's how you can incorporate fruit and vegetable gardens into your landscape design.

Start by evaluating your space. Understanding the layout and microclimates of your garden is crucial. Identify areas that receive maximum sunlight as most edibles, like tomatoes, peppers, and strawberries, thrive in sunny spots. Spaces with partial shade can host leafy greens like spinach and lettuce. Make sure to take note of areas prone to water pooling, as these can be ideal for moisture-loving plants like mint.

Once you've assessed your space, consider the design elements. Start by integrating edibles with traditional ornamentals to ensure the overall design remains cohesive. For instance, plant a border of purple basil or ornamental kale to create a striking visual contrast with blooming perennials. Low-growing herbs such as thyme and oregano can serve as ground cover, adding both beauty and aroma to your garden paths.

Incorporating vertical gardening techniques can help you maximize space, especially if you're working with a smaller area. Use trellises or arbours to support climbing plants like beans and cucumbers. These vertical structures not only save space but also add depth and dimension to the landscape. Raised garden beds can also be a great addition. They offer better drainage and soil quality control, making them perfect for a variety of vegetables and herbs.

Edible landscapes don't stop at vegetables. Consider adding fruit-bearing trees or shrubs. Dwarf fruit trees are ideal for smaller gardens and can bear delicious fruits such as apples, cherries, or plums. Berry bushes like blueberries or raspberries can be used as hedges, providing both a delicious harvest and a natural barrier.

The key to maintaining an edible landscape is managing biodiversity and ensuring a healthy ecosystem. Introduce companion planting to naturally deter pests and improve yields. For example, marigolds can repel nematodes, and planting them among your vegetables can enhance growth and reduce pest issues. Crop rotation is another essential practice to maintain soil health and prevent diseases.

Conclude your project with efficient watering strategies. Implementing an irrigation system or using mulch to retain soil moisture can significantly ease maintenance and boost plant health. Make sure your watering plan aligns with the specific needs of your chosen plants.

Finally, remember that patience is a key component. An edible landscape evolves with the seasons, and constant care and adjustments will help you yield the best results. As the seasons progress, you'll likely find new ways to optimize your garden space, adding more plants and refining your layout.

Creating an edible landscape is a rewarding endeavor that not only beautifies your home but also brings the bounty of nature to your doorstep. At Natural View Landscape, Inc., we are committed to helping you design outdoor spaces that reflect both your taste and commitment to sustainability. Whether you are starting small or planning a full-scale transformation, integrating edibles into your landscape is a step towards a more sustainable and delicious future. Let the transformation begin.